USCG News

More than US Vessel Documentation

More than US Vessel Documentation

Our site aims to be your number one, go-to site for US vessel documentation. We want to be the one place you go to when you have to get your vessel’s documents filled out and taken care. There are a lot of different ways we go about offering you more documentation services for your buck….

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US Coast Guard vessel registration

US Coast Guard Vessel Registration Renewal With No Worry

Do you worry about when you’re going to have to renew your US Coast Guard vessel registration? Does it feel like the deadline is coming or, unfortunately, might have already passed? These are common concerns associated with having a documented vessel. As vessel owners ourselves, we know how many different things you have to worry…

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vessel documentation

The Essentials of Vessel Documentation

Embarking on the maritime journey involves more than just navigating the open waters; it requires meticulous attention to paperwork. Documentation is a crucial aspect of maritime operations, ensuring compliance with regulations and providing a legal foundation for vessel ownership. In this article, we explore the essentials of vessel documentation and the role of the National…

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National Documentation Center

Rush In Documentation Center: Ways We Can Help

Time is often a critical factor when dealing with vessel documentation. Whether you’ve just purchased a vessel, need to update your Certificate of Documentation before a planned voyage, or want to complete a time-sensitive ownership transfer, waiting weeks for paperwork to be processed by the U.S. Coast Guard can be frustrating. That’s why we created…

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Marine Safety Alerts

Marine Safety Alerts: Smart Boating Tips for Summer’s End

As the summer season winds down, many boaters are eager to take advantage of the remaining warm weather by heading out on the water. Whether you’re wrapping up a long boating season or just squeezing in a few late-summer trips, maintaining awareness of current marine safety alerts and preparing accordingly is crucial. At the National…

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release of mortgage form

Release of Mortgage Form: Best Practices

After repaying a First Preferred Ship Mortgage, the lien must be officially removed from the vessel’s Coast Guard documentation record. This is done through a Release of Mortgage form, submitted to the United States Coast Guard. At the National Documentation Portal, we offer a straightforward, user-friendly platform that helps owners file this form properly and…

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Boat History Report

How to Check Boat History for Free Within Minutes

Before buying a documented vessel—or even just out of curiosity—it’s normal to want to know more about its history. Has it been properly documented? What is its official service designation? When does the Certificate of Documentation expire? These are all questions you can answer quickly and easily with the right tools. If you’ve ever wondered…

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Boat Name and Hailing Port

Hail Port: Most Important Info for Vessel Owners

When it comes to United States Coast Guard (USCG) vessel documentation, many owners know to focus on their vessel’s name, ownership, and registration status. However, another important and often overlooked element is the hail port, also known as the “hailing port.” This is the U.S. city and state listed on a documented vessel’s stern, displayed…

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Boat Bill of Sale

Boat Motor in a Bill of Sale: Everything That Should Be Included

When a boat changes hands, the bill of sale is more than just a receipt. It’s a legal document that outlines what was sold, the conditions of the sale, and who is now responsible for the vessel and its components. For those looking to include a boat motor in a bill of sale, the stakes…

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changing a boat's name

What You Need to Know to Change Name of Boat

Choosing a boat name is more than formality—it reflects a vessel owner’s identity, heritage, personal story, and deep pride. But what happens when that name no longer fits? Whether rebranding, honoring change, or starting fresh, now may be the right time to change name of boat. We can help.  Here at the National Documentation Portal,…

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